Columnea Jose Luis

A striking and unusual Columnea species with narrow, elongated leaves in deep burgundy-red with contrasting bright green stems — a rare foliage gem from the Gesneriaceae family that stands out for its vivid coloration and elegant, whorled growth pattern.

• Light: Bright indirect light; avoid direct sun, which can fade the rich red foliage. Thrives near an east-facing window or under grow lights.
• Temperature: Intermediate to warm-growing; prefers 60–80°F (15–27°C). Protect from cold drafts and temperatures below 55°F (13°C).
• Humidity: High humidity preferred, ideally 60–80%. Benefits from a humidifier or placement in a humid greenhouse or terrarium setting.
• Watering: Keep the substrate evenly moist but never waterlogged. Allow the top of the medium to dry slightly between waterings. Avoid wetting the foliage to prevent spotting.
• Growth Habit: Upright to semi-trailing grower with whorled leaf arrangement along the stem. Well-suited for hanging baskets or elevated shelves where the stems can cascade naturally.

Additional Notes:

Best grown in a light, well-draining mix of peat or coco coir, perlite, and fine bark. Pinching the stem tips encourages bushier growth and more prolific flowering. Columneas are epiphytic in nature, so excellent drainage and good air circulation around the roots are key to long-term success.